Many are celebrating a relatively low-key Diwali, the festival of lights, this year as coronavirus cases rise in many parts of the world.
Driving the news: Coronavirus restrictions and social distancing efforts have derailed the plans of many Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists who generally celebrate the festival by attending large gatherings.
The panorama: Many in India held small celebrations in their homes and communities, while various temples across the country streamed prayer sessions online, according to AP.
The Empire State Building in New York City was illuminated with an orange light celebrate. President Trump extended his “warmest wishes to all who celebrate Diwali” in a statement Saturday. President-elect Joe Biden also sent his best wishes in a cheep.
Celebrations were taking place in Pakistan, Nepal and several other cities around the world.
A man in a mask is seen in front of his display of marigold flower garlands during Diwali in New Delhi, India. Photo: Pradeep Gaur / SOPA Images / LightRocket via Getty ImagesA girl lights lamps for Diwali in Assam, India. Photo: Anuwar Hazarika / NurPhoto via Getty ImagesRevelers throw a handmade sky lantern from the terrace of a building to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, in Kolkata. Photo: Dibyangshu Sarkar / AFP via Getty ImagesPakistani Hindu women celebrate Diwali at Krishna Mandir in Lahore, Pakistan. Photo: Arif Ali / AFP via Getty Images A lady decorates her door during Diwali celebrations in Leicester, England. Photo: Jacob King / PA Images via Getty ImagesHindu devotees participate in Diwali rituals in the Indian village of Vejalpur. Photo: Sam Panthaky / AFP via Getty Images Girls hold sparklers during Diwali in Assam, India. Photo: Anuwar Hazarika / NurPhoto via Getty ImagesA family lights sparklers during Diwali in Faridabad, India. Photo: Money Sharma / AFP via Getty ImagesA man is seen carrying marigold flower garlands for Diwali sale at the flower market in New Delhi, India. Photo: Pradeep Gaur / SOPA Images / LightRocket via Getty Images
